The Country
Capital: Madrid
Population: 46
million Currency:
Euro
The second biggest country in the European Union, the modern
kingdom of Spain includes not only its mainland, located in south
western Europe, but also a number of overseas territories including
the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands in
the Atlantic Ocean. Spain has enjoyed major cultural and political
influence throughout history, particularly in the modern era when
it became a fully fledged global empire, and as a consequence
Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world.
Modern day Spain still has a constitutional monarchy, with King
Juan Carlos 1 having held the throne since 1975. In that time
Spain's economy has grown to become the fifth largest in Europe,
whilst its tourism industry - boosted by a diverse but favourable
climate - is now one of the largest in the world.
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information
Valencia - Why Go?
Valencia is Spain's third largest city, after only Madrid and
Barcelona, and benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterised
by warm average temperatures, dry summers and mild winters. The
city is famous for being the birthplace of the traditional dish of
Paella, although it is equally well reputed for its rich history
which dates back to its foundation by the Romans in 137 BC. In
modern times the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences museum has
become something of a landmark in the city, while the ancient city
walls, Cathedral and Escola Pia are also popular tourist sights.
The city enjoys a fantastic reputation for great food, whilst a
vibrant night life has also developed, with the Plaça de
l'Ajuntament and Plaça de la Verge - the two most
popular squares in the city - home to numerous bars and
restaurants.
Located around 22km to the west of Valencia, the Circuit Ricardo
Tormo will play host to the final round of the 2010 FIA Formula Two
Championship, having also hosted the opening round of 2009. The
circuit was built in 1999 and has a capacity of over 120,000
spectators, with a unique Stadium design meaning the entire track
is visible from almost any vantage point in the huge spectator
bankings. The circuit is notoriously intricate, placing the
emphasis on a driver's technical ability, and has a proud place in
Valencia's culture due to the racing school that has helped produce
a number of Spanish talents including double FIA Formula One World
Champion Fernando Alonso. The circuit was named in honour of
Ricardo Tormo, a Spanish Grand Prix motorcycle racer.
Useful Information
Located just outside Valencia, the Circuit Ricardo Tormo
benefits from superb transport links including the large Valencia
Airport in the west of the city. From there the main A3/E901
highway runs directly to the south of the circuit, while hotels,
restaurants and bars are dotted throughout the city. Despite
visiting in the middle of September, Valencia could still be very
warm and good sun protection is still advisable.
Saturday 18 September - Race 1
(UK) - Eurosport 2 - DELAYED: 16:30
(UK)
(International) - Eurosport - LIVE: 13:00
(CET)
(Asia Pacific) - Eurosport - LIVE: 13:00
(CET)
formulatwo.com - F2TV LIVE: 13:00 (CET); 12:00
(UK)
Sunday 19 September - Race 2
(UK) - Eurosport - LIVE: 12:45 (UK)
(International) - Eurosport - LIVE: 13:45
(CET)
(Asia Pacific) - Eurosport - LIVE: 13:45
(CET)
formulatwo.com - F2TV LIVE: 13:45 (CET); 12:45
(UK)
NB: All times subject to change - check
throughout the week for final listings.